Biblical References:
Proverbs 24:23 – “These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to show partiality in judgment.” (NKJV)

I Cor. 14:40 – “Let all things be done decently and in order.” (KJV)

Bylaws Description for Church Moderator:

The Church Moderator is a layman elected annually to carry out the Parliamentary Procedure needed at all Church Business Meetings. The Moderator fulfills a neutral role when presiding at regular and special called business meetings.

Policy and Procedures Description for Church Moderator:

Service Title: Church Moderator

Ministry Purpose: To prepare and preside at church business meetings, that is, to coordinate and facilitate productive church business in an orderly, efficient manner; to speak for the church and be the keeper of fellowship.

Service Relationships: The Church Moderator is: 1) to work with the Pastor and Church Officers to prepare the agenda for all business meetings; 2) follow up after each business meeting with the Church Clerk, responsible committees, and individuals to ensure that decisions made are executed properly; 3) be in touch with as many members as possible to know the spirit and mood of the congregation; 4) serves as a member of the Administrative Business Council.

Primary Functions:

Maintain the spirit of Christian love and fellowship while presiding by conducting meeting in an orderly manner.

Be familiar with prescribed parliamentary procedures.

Insist that motions be stated and seconded before they are discussed.

Call on the person who made the motion to discuss it first.

Encourage full and free debate. Lead member to talk through their disagreements.

Alternate discussions so as to bring out both sides of a question.

Allow members who have not spoken to be given preference over one who has. Be fair and courteous with all.

Respect the minority who has a right to be heard, even though the majority must prevail.

Always take the affirmative vote first, then the negative vote – and always take and record the results.

Disclaimer: All job descriptions/service descriptions are intended as a guide and may or may not fit the vision, purpose and practice of every church.